Business Technology News Roundup: Jun 27, 2025

A critical zero-click vulnerability in Apple’s Messages app, tracked as CVE-2025-43200, triggered a high-priority alert from the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). The flaw allowed attackers to compromise iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watches, and Vision Pro devices simply by sending a malicious photo or video via iCloud Link—no user interaction required. This exploit was actively used to deploy Paragon’s Graphite spyware, targeting journalists and civil society members in sophisticated campaigns. Apple responded with urgent patches across all affected platforms, and CISA mandated that all US federal agencies apply these fixes by July 7 or discontinue use of vulnerable devices. The incident underscores the growing threat posed by advanced spyware and the importance of rapid, coordinated responses to zero-day attacks.

SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son revealed plans for “Project Crystal Land,” a proposed $1 trillion AI and robotics industrial complex in Arizona. Envisioned as an American rival to China’s Shenzhen, the megaproject aims to create a world-class ecosystem for manufacturing AI-powered industrial robots and advancing artificial intelligence technologies. SoftBank is courting major partners, including TSMC and Samsung, and seeking support from both federal and state governments in the US. The project’s scale would dwarf previous SoftBank initiatives, such as the $500 billion Stargate AI infrastructure project. If realized, Crystal Land could transform Arizona into a global center for high-tech production and significantly boost US competitiveness in AI hardware and robotics. The initiative remains in early planning stages, with its success dependent on private investment and political backing.

At WWDC 2025, Apple introduced “Apple Intelligence,” a suite of AI features designed to operate primarily on-device, limiting reliance on cloud computing and prioritizing user privacy. Key updates included live translation for calls and messages, AI-powered call screening, visual intelligence for image analysis, and a more intelligent search bar for Mac. Apple also opened its on-device AI model to third-party developers, enabling a new wave of private, intelligent apps. While these features enhance user experience and align with enterprise demands for privacy, industry analysts noted the updates were incremental compared to more ambitious AI rollouts by Google and Microsoft. Apple’s stock experienced a brief dip, reflecting investor concerns about the company’s pace in the AI race. However, Apple’s strategy was praised by many CIOs for its focus on trust, compliance, and ecosystem integration over flashy generative AI demos.

Nvidia and Foxconn announced plans to deploy humanoid robots at Foxconn’s new Houston facility, which will manufacture Nvidia’s GB300 AI servers. This marks the first time Nvidia products will be assembled with the help of humanoid robots, representing a major leap in industrial automation. The robots—developed by Foxconn using Nvidia’s Isaac GR00T platform—will handle tasks such as cable assembly, component placement, and quality control. The initiative is expected to go live in early 2026 and is seen as a blueprint for the future of manufacturing, addressing labor shortages and boosting efficiency. The move also positions Foxconn and Nvidia at the forefront of the AI infrastructure boom, as demand for advanced servers and robotics accelerates across industries.

A group of former OpenAI employees released a public letter accusing the company of abandoning its original mission of ensuring AI benefits all humanity. The ex-staffers allege that OpenAI’s leadership, under CEO Sam Altman, has shifted focus toward rapid product releases and investor returns at the expense of safety and transparency. The letter cites internal warnings about security lapses, whistleblower retaliation, and a lack of adequate safeguards for advanced AI systems. The group is calling for an independent investigation, restoration of nonprofit authority, and robust whistleblower protections. OpenAI has defended its safety track record, but the controversy has intensified calls for stronger regulatory oversight and ethical standards in the AI industry.